Anackire asks nothing because she needs nothing, being everything," Raldnor said tightly, using a quotation of the temple. The Ommos laughed gently a… - Tanith Lee

All in all he had not done badly out of the war, but the smells of it, the sights of it, and the cries of pain that attended it like the vultures, had sickened and soured him. Yes, he could fight well enough. And kill efficiently. He feared death, like other men, but could put that from his mind in battle, and he was no fool with a sword or knife. But several smoking ruins ago there had come a curious shift inside himself. He had lost his sense of purpose in the war; he supposed because it was not truly his own purpose but that of the King.

Can I appeal?"
"Oh yes."
"Will it do any good?"
"None whatsoever.

They were very careful and kind. So careful and kind it was positively tactless and spiteful.